Likely you know someone who has been affected by the flu this year, with cases of the disease above normal throughout the season.

The good news is that vaccinations are easier to get and more affordable than ever, however they may not be completely effective. Spokesman Logan Boss of Northwest Georgia Public Health says influenza has struck senior citizens especially hard this season.

“It’s really important that these people seek care and get treated promptly. Older adults often delay seeking medical treatment. Antiviral treatment works best and should start as soon as possible.”

Children and those with weakened immune systems have also been hard hit by the flu. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Georgia falls in the lower ranked “local” category when it comes to the volume of reported flu cases. States across the Great Plains actually lead the U.S. in the density of the disease.